Saigon Vietnamese Restaurant Restaurant Review

: This Vietnamese restaurant has been a mainstay in Santa Barbara since 2004. It offers 100-plus traditional dishes, from commonplace spring rolls and satay to more exotic papaya salads, hot pots and atypical egg rolls stuffed with shrimp, pork, crab and mint leaves. The food is well prepared with reliably fresh ingredients. Snappy bean sprouts, basil and juicy lime accompany simmering bowls of pho. Extensive vegetarian selections include lemongrass tofu sautéed with steamed rice, which packs a spicy wallop. Plump, local shrimp are stir-fried with snow peas and bok choy. Lunch specials abound, mostly for under $10.The ambience matches the food: simple, clean and filled with greenery, lending to the healthy dining experience. Also located at Five Points Mall, 3987A State St., Santa Barbara, 805-964-0909.